Diagnosing Plumbing Noises
Noises coming through the plumbing aren’t only annoying, they could indicate the plumbing system isn’t running its best. Don’t ignore strange noises coming from the pipes, fixtures, or water heater. Instead, learn what they might mean.
1. Gurgling Drains
If the shower or sink drain gurgles when the toilet gets flushed, it could point to a whole variety of issues, such as a clogged pipe, air in the pipes, drain venting problems, or a sewer line problem. Since it could mean any of these things, it’s best to call All Star Plumbing and Restoration for helping fixing the issue.
2. Banging Pipes
A little noise coming from the pipes is pretty normal since water supply pipes are metal. However, if the noise gets louder, it might indicate an obstruction in the pipes. Removing the clog should reduce the banging noise. If it doesn’t, the issue may be that the pipes aren’t secured well enough.
3. Popping Water Heater
Water heaters shouldn’t be making many noises. If it is, there’s most likely sediment built up on the sides of the tank and the burner. This can affect the efficiency of the water heater, increasing bills and not giving enough hot water or in a timely manner.
4. Whistling Showerhead
A whistling showerhead is a pretty easy fix. It usually means the showerhead is clogged with sediment and simply needs cleaned. However, if the whistling doesn’t stop after a good cleaning, it might be time to get a new showerhead.
5. Running Toilet
If the toilet keeps running, it could signal a leak. Sometimes these can be easily fixed, and other times the toilet might need to be replaced.
If these noises start popping up, it’s time for a plumber to come take a look at the problem. All Star Plumbing and Restoration can help solve the plumbing problem and get rid of that noise.
Removing Hard Water Stains
Hard water stains are a cleaning challenge. They are unattractive and can be difficult to remove. There are a few different ways to scrub them off with natural ingredients that most people already have at home.
- Water and Vinegar
Mix half water and half vinegar in a spray bottle. Then spray the tub and shower and wait for about 10 minutes. Wipe it down and the stains should come off easily.
- Baking Soda and Vinegar
Create a paste with baking soda and vinegar. Cover the stain with the paste and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Scrub it clean and rinse with water.
- Lemon Juice
To clean faucets and fixtures with hard water stains, put fresh lemon juice into a spray bottle. Then spray it on the buildup. Wait 10 minutes before wiping down and rinsing the fixtures.
When hard water stains regularly build up, or are left too long, it might be too late to remove them. Replacing fixtures will solve the problem, until hard water starts to build up again.
Instead of constantly battling with hard water stains, consider having a water softener installed. This will help decrease the amount of rust, lime scale and other stains that are found in bathtubs, showers, sinks, and fixtures. It also has many other benefits like softer skin, cleaner dishes, longer lifespan for clothing and much more.
Don’t spend unnecessary time scrubbing hard water stains. Call All Star Plumbing and Restoration and ask about installing a water softener. We will also assess water composition before installation.
Acrylic vs. Tile Shower
There are so many decisions homeowners must make when renovating the bathroom. One of those decisions is choosing the type of shower surface, which often comes down to acrylic or tile. The final decision will probably come down to budget, space, and personal preference, but homeowners should know each of their pros and cons.
Acrylic Advantages
- Installation is faster and easier than tile when done by professionals or DIY
- Acrylic is more cost-effective than tile
- This material is lighter, and is easier to install in problem areas
Acrylic Maintenance
The only maintenance required for an acrylic shower is wiping it down with a damp cloth or cleaning off stains with vinegar and water.
Tile Advantages
- Design options for every bathroom style
- Tile can be eco-friendly, made with 40% or 60% recycled content
- Tiles can be cut down to fit a space rather easily
Tile Installation
Tile takes more time and effort to install, and generally looks better when professionally installed. However, this means homeowners will likely have to spend more money on the project.
Tile Maintenance
With tile comes grout, which is a little more difficult to clean. Grout needs a good scrub regularly to prevent mold growth. Grout also breaks down over time and will need to be replaced.
Each material has many options to fit into every homeowner’s budget and design scheme. After choosing the shower material, call All Star Plumbing and Restoration to make sure the plumbing is properly positioned and to install the faucets and fixtures.
Deciding to Install a Sump Pump
Protecting the basement from flooding isn’t something homeowners think about all the time. However, with the constant snow, ice, and rain the Treasure Valley has experienced this winter, it might be on more homeowners’ minds.
One way to protect the basement from flooding is by installing a sump pump. Not all homes are in need of sump pumps, so how does one decide? Here are a few factors that can help:
1. Has the basement flooded before?
If the answer is yes, a sump pump might be able to help.
2. Is the home in a flat or low-lying area with soil that traps water?
This is a good indication that there’s a threat of flooding with large amounts of precipitation.
3. Is there lots of rain or snow?
People living in areas that experience large quantities of rain or snow are more likely to see flooding in their basement.
4. Does the basement contain expensive items?
Some homeowners have a lot of expensive furniture and other items stored in the basement and would like to protect them from the possibility of water damage or mold.
5. Is there already an old sump pump in the basement?
Homes with sump pumps that are over ten years in age should consider investing in a new one.
Sumps pumps are installed in the lowest part of the basement, generally in a sump pit. Water then flows into the sump pit through drains or natural water migration through soil. The pump then pumps the water out of the pit and away from the building so the basement stays dry.
According to the American Society of Home Inspectors, more than 60 percent of American homes suffer from below-ground wetness. This means many of those homes will likely have to deal with water damage and flooding at some point.
Prevent water damage before it happens with the help of All Star Plumbing and Restoration. We can install a sump pump to help protect that gorgeous basement from flooding.
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